Louisiana has a long tradition of nonpublic education through private and parochial schools. Louisiana’s State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) approves such schools when they apply to have their programs certified as having “a sustained curriculum or specialized course of study of quality at least equal to that prescribed for similar public schools” and have their diplomas recognized as equivalent to those issued by public schools. Learn more here.
Click here to access the latest list of BESE approved nonpublic schools across Louisiana. Many of these schools charge tuition, have admissions criteria, and measure student learning in different ways that align with their unique program. While not subject to many of the Louisiana laws and regulations that apply to public schools, they are accountable to the families who entrust their child’s education to them. Contact each school directly for more information about their educational program, policies, and costs.
Private schools are not required to seek approval by BESE. Those not seeking state approval may not receive public funds and their graduates are not eligible for TOPS scholarships. Some private schools choose not to seek BESE approval because they intend on operating as a home-based school. Learn about this option here.
